The serene and picturesque Kashmir valley has always captivated the hearts of visitors. Amongst its pristine beauty, one of the most important attractions is its rich Hindu culture in the form of temples. Ancient rock-cut cave Kashmir Mandirs, intricate wooden carvings, exquisite stone temple facades, as well as magnificent clusters of shrines, each characterized by unique architectural styles, tell us tales of remarkable dynasties and epochs that have passed by.
The Martand Sun Temple has stood firm since 800 AD depicting Indo-Aryan architecture. While the Shankaracharya shrine dates back to 300 BC, speaking volumes about the glorious history of Kashmir, one can’t miss out on visiting this hidden gem. Let us now show you glimpses of Kashmir temples:
1. Shankaracharya Temple, Srinagar
Side view of Shankar Acharya temple made of non-erodible rocks. Image: Twitter
Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar is an exquisite Hindu temple in Kashmir, atop the Takht-e-Sulaiman hill, replete with a rich historical and spiritual essence. At its inauguration in 371 BC by King Jaluka, who belonged to the famous Maurya Dynasty. This 500ft tall Temple was known as ‘Gorakhnath Mandir’. It features distinct religious icons like 8.2 meters high Shiva Lingam – carved out of a single boulder of non-erodible rock. And several other stone statues of various Gods and Goddesses.
Moreover, the first Guru, Sri Shankaracharya, visited this Temple to pay homage to Shiva during his religious expedition across India. For tourists and trekkers alike, climbing up 270 stairs. Kashmir Shiva temple offers a beautiful view over Kashmir valley and complete immersion in its serene ambience.
2. Kheer Bhawani Temple, Tulmulla
Kheer Bhawani Temple is a unique and famous Hindu temple in Kashmir. In the heart of the Valley of Kashmir, visitors have a tranquil and spiritual experience. Thousands of devotees flock to the Temple yearly to pay their respects to Goddess Ragnya Devi. She is an incarnation of the Hindu goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. The Temple is visually and architecturally striking, with ornate walls and domes of marble that give off a timeless beauty.
Visitors can explore its many courtyards and marvel at its sacred spring, which changes colour eight times daily depending on the deity’s mood. Whether you’re here for sightseeing or a pilgrimage, the Kashmir temple of Kheer Bhawani will surely leave you in awe as you take part in its divine atmosphere and ancient traditions.
3. Amarnath Cave Temple, Anantnag
Amarnath Cave Temple is a sacred pilgrimage destination for Hindus in Anantnag. This Kashmir temple was discovered over 5,000 years ago when an ice stalagmite shaped like a Shiva lingam was noticed in the cave. Visitors come from far and wide to participate in the annual Amarnath yatra or pilgrimage offered during summer. The holy shrine offers magnificent views of snow-capped mountains. As pilgrims approach, it also provides adventurous tourist opportunities, such as trekking, camping, and horse riding.
As one embarks on this spiritual journey, one can witness ancient architecture like Sheeshnag Lake and Lingam of Ice, along with the breathtaking landscape of glaciers. This Yatra further allows devotees to experience the hard-core beauty & spirituality that lies around Amarnath Cave Temple. And understand its religious significance & power.
4. Hari parbat Hill Temple
Hari Parbat Hill temple is a famous Hindu temple in Kashmir and a must-visit tourist site. Rising from the east of Dal Lake, the hilltop temple is dedicated to Goddess Sharika Bhagwati. She is believed to be the most powerful goddess. The hill also offers a breathtaking view of Dal Lake and its surrounding Mughal Gardens. Visitors may explore the various attractions around the temple, such as ancient Hindu temples in J&K. Mosques and shrines are also built in honour of different local spiritual personalities.
Additionally, this hill is historically significant as it was once occupied by Mughals and Sikhs, encompassing cultural diversity in a single spot. Thus, Hari Parbat Hill Temple is an excellent place for sightseeing and exploration. It is topped with the unparalleled natural beauty of Kashmir’s stunning landscape, making it a true tourism gem.
5. Martand Sun Temple, Anantnag
Martand Sun Temple in Anantnag, a central Hindu temple in the Kashmir valley. The temple is an architectural legacy of the eighth Century that dates back to the ancient Hindu kingdom of Kashmir. Built by King Lalitaditya and dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, this monument is a silent and majestic reminder of the lost glory of past ages. Providing locals with insight into its architectural wonders, tourists can explore intricately carved images depicting various religious scenes from Hindu scripture during their visit.
Additionally, its courtyard provides visitors with a breathtaking view of the entire surrounding landscape and allows them to witness some incredible sunsets this region offers. As one of India’s most iconic sites, Martand Sun Temple offers tourists local hospitality, unique culture, and remarkable history – elements that make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring its rich heritage and culture.
6. Rani Temple, Gulmarg
Rani Temple is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Jammu and Kashmir. This temple has an ancient history, believed to have been built in the 12th Century by the then-ruler King Yasovarman. The striking feature of this Kashmir temple is its intricate architecture, which includes intricately carved stone sculptures and wooden carvings. Every part of the temple represents a unique element of Indian culture, making it an ideal place to explore the unique local culture while engaging in religious activity.
Visitors can also participate in cultural activities, such as dance performances related to mythology. Rani Temple offers a great chance to experience serenity and peace amidst nature’s beauty, surrounded by picturesque forests, rolling valleys, and vibrant flower gardens.
7. Mamaleshwar Temple, Pahalgam
Mamaleshwar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple in the peaceful town of Pahalgam. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most ancient pilgrim sites in North India. The main feature of this temple is its beautiful 12 ft tall Shiva Linga which provides a unique spiritual experience for visitors. A beautiful temple complex surrounds the Linga, including colourful paintings, decorations, and statues of gods such as Lord Shri Krishna, Hanuman, Garuda, and Lakshmi Devi.
It also has several smaller shrines devoted to other Hindu deities. During the festive season, devotees flock to this majestic temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings from lord shiva due to its legendary association with divine powers. This Kashmir temple allows tourists to immerse themselves in the spiritual heritage of India and have a unique cultural experience.
8. Awantipur Temple
Awantipur Temple is in the Pulwama district of Jammu & Kashmir. It is one of the most famous Hindu temples in the Pampore region, attracting tourists from different parts of the country. The history of Awantipur temple dates back to the 8th century CE, and it was built by a great king Avantivarman as a tribute to Lord Vishnu, as he is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
The temple is mainly of white stones and sandstones. It consists of four distinct sanctums dedicated to three gods- Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu. Tourists visiting this place can explore its rich historical heritage, architecture, and divine spirituality it holds. Pilgrims flock here for spiritual nourishment, thanking divinity for their pleas granted as well as seeking favours from him. An experience like no other awaits them here at Awantipur Temple.
9. Durga Nag Temple
Durganag Temple in Srinagar is an ancient Hindu temple on the River Jhelum’s banks. Originally built around the 8th Century, this building has been a spiritual place for locals since then and attracts numerous visitors to experience its age-old charm. An exceptional example of Hindu architectural style and craftsmanship, it welcomes every visitor with its iconic entrance arch, domed roofs and intricate tracery.
Alongside its religious significance, Durganag is a beautiful hotspot for sightseeing trips. This area is an excellent source of stunning spectacles reflecting local richness in culture and landscape beauty ranging from snow-capped mountains to sparkling rivers flowing by lush green meadows. Besides all such offerings, birds chirping here offer a beautiful ambience, thus making it one of the best places to visit in Srinagar.
10. Vijeshwer Temple, Bijbehara
The Vijeshwer Temple, a famous Hindu temple in the small town of Bijbehara near Anantnag in Jammu and Kashmir, attracts scores of tourists every year. The temple was constructed hundreds of years ago and had two distinct components – a black marble Siddha Peeth built by Maharaja Gulab Singh and a Shiva Linga located next to it. The Siddha Peeth, shaped like an inverted bowl, is one of the country’s fifty-one sacred Shakti Peeths.
Tourists are graphically mesmerized when they feast their eyes upon the exquisitely carved stone sculptures and vibrant paintings within the complex walls; such artworks often depict profound stories from Hindu mythology. Locals swear it’s almost impossible to leave this place with a heavy heart as its serene ambience provides nothing but pure satisfaction and peace. With its rich cultural heritage, Vijeshwer Temple is an ideal inclusion on any tourist’s bucket list.
